Prilosec and Protonix belong to a group of medications known as proton pump inhibitors. These are drugs that decrease the production of acid in the stomach and intestines. Prilosec's generic name is omeprazole, while Protonix' generic name is pantoprazole. Proton pump inhibitors are the third highest-selling class of drugs in the United States, according to Consumer Reports.
Uses
Prilosec is used alone or in combination with other drugs to treat stomach ulcers, duodenal ulcers, erosive esophagitis due to gastroesophageal reflux disease and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, according to the National Institutes of Health. Prilosec may also be used with antibiotics to kill H. pylori, a bacterium that causes stomach ulcers.
Protonix is mainly prescribed for short-term treatment of erosive esophagitis due to GERD. Protonix is also used to treat Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, a condition in which the stomach produces too much acid.
Contraindications
Patients allergic to omeprazole should avoid Prilosec and those allergic to pantoprazole should avoid Protonix. Signs of allergic reactions to either drug include difficulties breathing, wheezing, chest tightness, hives and rashes. Prilosec and Protonix should also not be used in patients with undiagnosed stomach pains, bloody stools, vomit that looks like ground coffee and unexplained weight loss.
Side Effects
Common side effects of Prilosec include stomach pain, diarrhea, gas, bloating, constipation, headache, cough and back pain, according to the NIH.
Common side effects of Protonix include headache, dizziness, muscle pain, diarrhea, stomach pain, nausea, gas and bloating.
Adverse side effects of either drug include liver damage and inflammation of the pancreas. Suppression of stomach acid by Protonix and Prilosec creates a favorable environment for the growth of fungus in the esophagus and growth of cancerous polyps in the stomach.
Availability
Prilosec is available as prescription delayed-release capsules and as non-prescription delayed-release tablets known as Prilosec OTC. Prilosec delayed-release oral suspension is available for patients who may have problems swallowing tablets and capsules.
Protonix is available as prescription delayed-release tablets and as prescription oral granules. Protonix is not available over the counter. Protonix powder is also available for intravenous use. Prilosec powder is not available in this form.
Directions for Use
Prilosec tablets or capsules should be taken once a day in the morning, one hour before a meal, according to the NIH. Prilosec capsules and tablets should be swallowed whole because the drugs are designed to be released slowly in the body. Prilosec OTC should taken once every 24 hours for 14 days. Patients should allow four months to pass before starting another 14-day treatment.
Protonix tablets should taken whole, 30 minutes before meals. Protonix granules can be mixed with applesauce and swallowed immediately, without chewing.
Prilosec and Protonix should not be used for the immediate relief of heartburn symptoms because the drugs may take up to four days to have an effect on the body.
Warning
The U.S Food and Drug Administration warns that long-term use of high doses of proton pump inhibitors like Prilosec and Protonix may cause increased risks of fractures of the hip, wrist and spine. Long-term use of Prilosec and Protonix may also make it harder for the body to absorb vitamin B12, resulting in a deficiency.
